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Conditioning Moccasins, How To Video, Two Fittings, Lacing & Break In, Fitting Process, Contract, Repairs & Replacement, Guarantee

How To Clean Moccasins

Your moccasins are crafted from high-quality top-grain leather, designed to breathe and allow moisture to escape. They effectively shed water due to their thickness and the natural oils present in the leather. As they're worn, your feet might perspire, causing them to become dirty and weathered from exposure to the sun, heat, rain, wind, and dirt. This perspiration releases toxins and salt, which can accumulate in the leather. If not cleaned, the heat and moisture can lead to rotting, causing the leather to dry, crack, or split, particularly in the toe box area. For the longest and most comfortable wear from your moccasins, it is essential to keep them clean, apply oil, and remove any toxin or salt buildup. When maintained properly, these moccasins can last between 10 to 20 years. It's advisable to wash them at least a couple of times a year, especially if worn regularly. If you wear them daily or if your feet perspire more than average, they will need more frequent washing.

They are designed to be hand-washable, both inside and out, and can be spot cleaned on the outside, too. Start by removing the insoles and fully submerging them in lukewarm soapy water. It's crucial to use a non-detergent agent, such as Woolite or Ivory Soap. After soaking, gently scrub them with a washcloth, paying particular attention to the toe box area. The goal is to eliminate dirt and dust, mainly focusing on removing toxins and salts from the leather. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap, then air dry in a warm area away from direct sunlight. You can hang them upside down on a broom handle to facilitate drying, which can take about 3 days. Alternatively, a boot dryer can be used to provide low or no heat.

A simpler method is using the washing machine, which may yield better cleaning results! Utilize Woolite or a non-detergent soap on a gentle cycle with warm water. Be cautious as bright-colored leather may run, so it’s advisable to hand wash these in cold water. To prevent color bleeding, wash your moccasins separately from other clothing. Placing each in a separate pillowcase while using a washing machine is recommended. Remove the insoles to wash by hand. The drying method remains the same as with hand-washing.

If you want to clean just a specific spot, simply wipe it with a damp washcloth without soap. The leather might darken and show a ring in treated areas after drying. To avoid this, slightly dampen the entire exterior when cleaning a specific area. This method can also help even out any spot rings if the moccasins are dry.

Proper Storage:

Proper storage is crucial. If moccasins are placed in a bag or box after sweating, particularly if well-oiled, they won't be able to breathe or rid themselves of moisture. This can lead to mildew development, effectively ruining them in a short time. Therefore, avoid tossing them into the bottom of your closet or stuffing them away in the garage. It's best to hang them up to air dry in a cool-to-warm area, away from direct sunlight.

Conditioning

Upon receiving your new moccasins, it's necessary only to break them in. With usage, they may lose some of their natural luster, especially in extreme weather, which will require conditioning. If dirty, wash them prior to conditioning and allow them to dry.

Start with clean, dry moccasins. Any quality leather dressing that replenishes oils back into the leather will suffice. The oils in the dressing will darken the leather. Once dry, the natural color will still be slightly darker. I do not recommend products containing silicone, like Snow Seal, as silicone can seal the leather and prevent it from breathing, leading to dryness and cracking. Saddle soap is also not recommended, as it serves more as a cleaner than a conditioner. I sell an exceptional leather dressing known as 'Montana Pitch Blend,' available on the Order Page in the Accessories section. It’s a unique mix of pine pitch, mink oil, and beeswax. When applying, use a small amount and rub it in while wearing the moccasins until the oil thoroughly absorbs. Avoid exposing them to dust or dirt until the oils are fully absorbed. If excess oil is applied, wipe it off after some time. Heating the moccasins can assist in oil absorption. Remember, a little goes a long way!

Directions for Montana Pitch Blend include: Apply using your hand or a soft cloth. Melt the wax with a hairdryer or place the dressing in a warm area until absorbed. Repeat with a second coat.

Additionally, store the moccasins in a place where they can breathe when not in use. Placing them in a closet can lead to mold due to trapped moisture.

How To Video & Manual

The How To Videos & Manual comes with 4 DVDs or 1 Blu-Ray disc containing over 4 hours of video detailing every step in the construction of knee-high moccasins from casting to finishing. This is akin to an apprenticeship program minus the hands-on training with an instructor. I guide you through each aspect of the process. All steps are well covered.

The included steps cover: The Cast, Patterns, Leather Types, Tools & Materials, Cutting, Gluing & Sewing Leather, Soling, Buttons, and Finish Work.

Within the 'How To Manual,' you’ll find a detailed overview of the process and 60 photos illustrating the moccasin-making journey as visual aids while crafting your first few pairs. Additionally, you'll have access to a crucial Resource Guide with names, addresses, and contact information for suppliers of all necessary tools, equipment, and materials including leather, buttons, soles, etc.

If you've aspired to make your own moccasins/boots or to start your own business, the 'How To Video' & Manual Apprentice Program can help you achieve that. With dedication to the instruction provided in this video, you could be creating custom footwear for yourself and others in no time.

This endeavor is not to be taken lightly; crafting this type of custom boot requires hard work! However, the satisfaction of creating a comfortable pair of boots for someone with hard-to-fit feet is incredibly rewarding. I've successfully maintained a comfortable living in this trade and intend to continue making boots during retirement.

Please note, the video is not professionally produced; you are purchasing my expertise in boot-making rather than cinematography skills. You will also receive ongoing consultation support via email.

The digitally produced DVDs are user-friendly, allowing easy navigation through chapters, making this a fantastic apprenticeship tool. The higher resolution Blu-ray version features additional footage at the same price.

Do I Need Two Fittings

Determining the necessity of two fittings is simple through comparing your tracings. You will be instructed to trace both feet on paper, which when held together against light, will reveal any length or width discrepancies. Following this, you’ll be instructed to cast the larger or longer foot. For two distinct patterns, casts of both feet are required.

Consider two fittings if:
1. There is more than a 1/3 difference in length or width.
2. Notable differences exist in the toe box area or heel width.

If a pair of boots is ordered with a single fitting for the final pattern and there are notable differences, it could lead to excess room in one or both boots. Excess room can result in foot sliding and discomfort or blisters. The additional cost for a second fitting is $50 and can be worthwhile if needed. If the discrepancies are slight, having two fittings may not be necessary. Some individuals opt for this anyway to ensure no excess room in the smaller foot. The boots will have slightly different shapes, and some prefer one cast so that both boots share the same shape. I can't decide for you, but I can offer my recommendations. The additional charge remains $50.

Lacing & Break-In of Moccasins

Proper lacing of moccasins is crucial,
as is the break-in process.

Your new moccasins arrive laced correctly. The lacing process starts by pulling the lace tightly from the top of each tab (not pulling around the button) and wrapping it over and around the button above it. This creates an 'X' between each button and tab rather than a ladder.

The technique for tying the slip knot at the top is similar to that of regular shoes, but with one lace! Follow the drawing for a simple slip knot. Start as specified, pulling at the top of the tab, going over the button, then forming a loop and tucking it behind and through the hole, pulling tight.

Lacing

When trying on your new moccasins for the first time, ensure the inserts are tucked under the inside seam around the moccasins. It’s vital that your feet are clean, dry, and bare—no socks! If after breaking them in for a few days you feel the need for socks, that’s fine. However, I suggest avoiding socks initially, as your moccasins can breathe and wick away moisture effectively without them, reducing potential slippage. Pull from the front of the moccasin, placing your foot's front flat on the floor with the heel raised, then wiggle your toes forward until they touch the end. Failing to do so could result in Heel Bag, which is a costly repair. Always lace them tightly, especially at the bottom, to retain your foot's position within the moccasins, allowing the leather to form memory and stretch appropriately. Some may initially feel cramped, but if pain occurs, remove the moccasins and stretch them with a rounded object, such as a broom handle, or jam a golf ball into the toe area for a few days. You might need to remove the insoles and repeat the break-in process. After achieving a proper fit and stretch, Heel Bag should not be a significant concern. The diagram below illustrates what Heel Bag looks like and how the foot should be placed correctly in the moccasin. It's vital to ensure your feet are fully at the front of the moccasins!

What is the Fitting Process

You might be curious about what makes these moccasins unique and the fitting process involved. Most of the shoe industry utilizes a hard molded last based on a standard foot shape to create footwear from a hardened material meant to retain shape over time. This generally fits many feet comfortably. However, for individuals with uniquely shaped feet or unique size requirements, custom-fitting footwear is necessary for comfort.

My approach involves creating custom-fitted boots tailored to your exact foot and leg shapes using a soft last cast pattern. Should you desire a different toe area shape, it is necessary to communicate this. Once I receive your order and deposit, I can send a link via email or mail the Casting Video on DVD. This video guides you through the complete casting process using strips of duct tape placed over a sock.

Cast

This cast, along with tracings of both feet, is used to produce the final pattern for constructing your custom-fitted boots. I will mail the pattern along with the boots. For future orders, simply return the pattern. This pattern can also accommodate any necessary changes or be used for new insoles, resoling, or different height boots.

I charge $50 If I do this cast for you.

SodHoppers Contract

A contract is established between you and SodHoppers once payment is received for the goods—specifically, the moccasins. This contract obliges me, SodHoppers, to create a custom pair of moccasins as specified in your order form/receipt, typically within 3-5 weeks after receiving your cast and full payment. Orders can be modified any time before the order starts.

I do not offer cancellations or refunds.

Once a contract is established through placing an order and making a deposit, customers have one year to fulfill their obligations by completing payment and returning their cast and/or video. If this timeframe elapses without completion, the contract becomes invalid, and all payments are forfeited. Orders placed and paid for but unfulfilled within a year will be considered in default. SodHoppers holds no responsibilities after this one-year period.

SodHoppers guarantees all its moccasins for one year, as stated in the Guarantee section above. I stand behind my craftsmanship. However, I do not provide refunds. If you are dissatisfied with your moccasins for any reason, I will do everything in my power to rectify the situation and ensure your satisfaction. Good customer relations are vital to my business. Please read through the customer comments section to see how others have experienced SodHoppers products and customer service.

Repairs & Replacements

If repairs or replacements are necessary after the guarantee has expired, I will gladly assist for a cost representing materials and your labor time. The minimum charge for repairs is $50.

What if my moccasins feel too tight in the toe box area?

Have you attempted stretching the toe box with a broom handle? Have you left a golf ball jammed in any tight spots while your feet are off the moccasins? If both methods fail, try this instead: Lace them up while standing and step into warm water until the moccasins are fully soaked. Wear them until they loosen and provide comfort. Remove them before overstretching and let them dry with the insoles removed. Once they are mostly dry, put the insoles back in, lace them up, apply leather dressing, and wear them. They should stretch to conform to your feet.

How much does resoling cost, and can I switch to a different sole?

Resoling costs $100 plus $15 for return shipping, including re-adhering soles. You can choose any sole you like, with one exception: if you have a Goop sole and want a different sole, the cost will be $200, plus shipping. This is because I have to completely disassemble the moccasins to create a new bottom and insoles. The same procedure and charges apply for transitions from a standard sole to a Goop sole or replacing any moccasins' complete bottoms, soles, and insoles.

For repairs or replacements outside the guarantee, I will gladly assist at a cost reflecting materials and labor. My hourly minimum charge for repairs starts at $50/hr.

For more information, please visit Gofar.

What should I do if my moccasins feel too tight in the toe box?

Before & After Replacing the Entire Bottoms of Well-Worn Moccasins.

This person may have waited a bit too long to reapply the Goop to the bottoms, but the pair remains repairable. I just had to replace the entire bottom section.

How can a broken button be replaced?

Simply notify me, and I will send out standard buttons for $2 each or any optional buttons at their respective costs, plus shipping. I include a free needle, waxed string, and straightforward visual instructions for this simple home repair.

How to re-Goop my soles and fix edges that have peeled?

I provide a Goop mixture with the necessary instructions on the Order Page within the Accessories section.

When you decide to restore the edges or thin spots on your bottoms, start by cleaning your moccasins and letting them dry completely. This ensures removal of dirt and oils. Then, apply Goop using a pallet knife or knife, let cure around a week, lace them up, apply leather dressing, and wear. Allow an hour between at least three layers. To clean off any excess glue or Goop from the knife or leather, wait until it’s dry and simply rub it off.

If you prefer to have me do this, the cost will depend on the materials and labor required, plus shipping expenses.

What if my Goop soles are detaching along the seams—should I trim and re-Goop?

Feel free to trim the overlapping Goop carefully, ensuring not to cut into the leather. You should patch these areas with Goop to prevent dirt from getting lodged, which could wear away and damage threads, or to preserve the leather strip’s integrity. There’s no immediate concern for several months of wear, until the soles show wear, at which point the initial peeling will likely decrease.

When you’re ready to Goop your thinning edges and bottoms, clean the moccasins thoroughly, and let them dry completely. This cleans off dirt and oils. Goop the areas, allow it to cure for roughly a week, lace them back up, apply leather dressing, and wear.

What can be done if I seem to walk off my heels or roll off the front?

This often occurs due to the nature of moccasins and a tendency for certain feet to pronate externally or supinate internally while walking. The casting and tracing don't consider walking tendencies, a common oversight in various footwear styles. Unlike typical shoes made from a stiffened last, moccasins are constructed from pliable top-grain leather, allowing for a custom fit, resulting in ultimate comfort but also permitting your foot to maintain its own path, thereby shaping after breaking in and stretching. Most other footwear employs a hard last that retains its shape, supplemented by stiffened heel counters to combat heel sliding, which moccasins lack because of their distinct construction method. The trade-off here is between the unmatched fit and comfort of custom moccasins and the standard shoe's fit.

Unfortunately, there’s no perfect solution to this. Individuals who have a tendency to slide off their heels may benefit from an insole with a well-fitted cupped heel to help stabilize the position.

I refer to the experience of walking off the heels as Heel Bag, often experienced by heavier individuals or those whose natural gait leans towards the inside or outside when walking, or due to improper wearing. Proper wearing considerations play a significant role. It's vital to remember that moccasins are crafted from top-grain leather, allowing your feet to move freely. If the moccasins become excessively wet, refrain from wearing them as it will result in overstretching and may cause your feet to slide back over the heel. Additionally, proper break-in and lacing are essential for optimal use of the moccasins.

SodHoppers Guarantee

SodHoppers guarantees your moccasins, including materials and craftsmanship, for one full year. If any issues arise within this period—excluding neglect or abuse—please notify me. I’ll make all necessary repairs or replacements free of charge.

If fitting issues are identified and determined to be a result of my craftsmanship, repairs will be free of charge. It is important to follow the Casting DVD instructions closely during the casting and tracing process, and to communicate any fitting issues as soon as they arise.

I stand behind my work, but I do not offer refunds. If you are notatisfied with your moccasins in any manner, I will do my utmost to ensure your satisfaction. My business thrives on strong customer relations, so please peruse the customer comments section to see how others regard SodHoppers products and service. While complete customer satisfaction is my goal, I cannot guarantee that every customer will be pleased at all times.

The durability of these top-grain leather moccasins is contingent on their maintenance. With proper care, they should provide 10 to 20 years of comfort. Refer to the Care Instructions on the Q&A page for further information.